India concerned about violence in Rakhine state, says PM Modi

In a bid to strengthen bilateral relations with the neighbour, PM Modi announced gratis visas to citizens of Myanmar who wish to visit India

India shared Myanmar's concerns about extremist violence in Rakhine state and violence against security forces, said Prime Minister Modi on Wednesday in Yangon.

In a joint statement following the exchange of agreements between India and Myanmar, PM Modi, said, "We share your concerns about extremist violence in Rakhine state and violence against security forces and how innocent lives have been affected."

''We hope that all stakeholders together can find a way out in which unity and territorial integrity of Myanmar is respected. At the same time we can have peace, justice, dignity and democratic values for all," said PM Modi.

Also, in a bid to strengthen bilateral relations with the neighbour, Modi announced gratis visas to citizens of Myanmar who wish to visit India.

''40 Myanmarese citizens who are in Indian jails will be released, said PM Modi.

Earlier, PM Modi and State Counsellor of Myanmar Aung San Suu Kyi witnessed the exchange of agreements between India and Myanmar.

Aung San Suu Kyi said, ''Together we will ensure that terror is not allowed to take roots in our country, on our soil or in neighboring countries."

Meanwhile, PM Modi appreciated Suu Kyi's leadership during the Myanmar peace process.

''Your (Aung San Suu Kyi) courageous leadership to the Myanmar peace process needs to be lauded,'' said PM Modi who on his first bilateral tour of Myanmar.

''I feel home with the hearty welcome reception by the Myanmar government. Being neigbours, we have similar security concerns. Important for us to work together," he added.

The Prime Minister's visit to Myanmar comes amid a spike in ethnic violence with Rohingya Muslims in the Rakhine state.

The Indian government is also concerned about Rohingya immigrants in the country, and has been considering to deport them. Around 40,000 Rohingyas are said to be staying illegally in India.

OneIndia News